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Authentic Ilocos Empanada

Authentic Ilocos Empanada: Crispy, Savory Comfort in Every Bite

Discover the Authentic Ilocos Empanada—a savory snack filled with flavor and history, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 empanadas
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Filipino
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Substitution: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  • 1 cup water Use cold water for best results.
  • ½ cup orange annatto oil (achiote oil) Substitution: Regular vegetable oil can be used, but color will be less vibrant.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for both dough and filling.
Filling Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground pork Substitution: Ground chicken or beef may be used.
  • 1 cup diced potatoes Substitution: Sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
  • ½ cup diced carrots Can be omitted if not preferred.
  • 1 medium chopped onions Substitution: Use shallots for a milder taste.
  • ½ cup diced green bell peppers Substitution: Any bell pepper color can be used.
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions May be replaced with regular onions or omitted.
  • 2 pieces hard-boiled eggs Use fewer eggs for a lighter filling.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
Frying Ingredients
  • as needed vegetable oil Use any oil suitable for high heat frying, like canola.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • deep frying pan
  • Fork

Method
 

Making the Dough and Filling
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cold water, orange annatto oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until a dough forms and knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Allow resting for 30 minutes.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add in ground pork, diced potatoes, and carrots; season with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pork is browned and vegetables are tender. Mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs and green onions, then remove from heat.
Assembling and Frying Empanadas
  1. Divide the rested dough into small balls, roll each into a thin circle. Place filling in the center, fold to create a half-moon shape, and seal the edges using a fork.
  2. In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C). Fry empanadas in batches for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Nutrition

Serving: 1empanadaCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for crispy empanadas and ensure edges are well sealed during frying.

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